Admissions Requirements
Welcome to Middle Way Acupuncture Institute
We are honored that you’re considering joining our vibrant community of students, educators, and healing professionals. Our admissions process is designed to be welcoming, supportive, and informative, helping you explore your goals and determine whether MWAI is the right fit for your journey into acupuncture and holistic health. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
At MWAI, we are dedicated to your success. We provide admissions support for both our Master’s Level Diploma in Acupuncture (MAc) and our Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CCHM) programs. Whether you are starting a new career or expanding your skills as a wellness practitioner, MWAI is committed to making your application experience clear, accessible, and supportive.
Admission Requirements
General Education:
- Minimum of 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (grade C or higher) from a U.S. Department of Education-recognized institution or an equivalent institution outside the United States.
Required Prerequisite Courses (before enrollment):
- Biology – 3 semester or 5 quarter credits
- Chemistry – 3 semester or 5 quarter credits
- Two courses in any of the following subjects: Medical Terminology, Psychology, Western Nutrition, Sociology, Anthropology, Global Health, or Physics (the Registrar may approve alternatives)
Required Co-requisite Courses (by December of Year 1):
- Human Anatomy & Physiology I–II – 7 semester or 10 quarter credits
Note:
- All pre- and co-requisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher
- The 90 credits required for admission do not count toward the 450 hours of bioscience required during the program
Applicants must be either:
- Graduates of a MAc or MTCM program
- Have completed the first three semesters of MWAI’s MAc program or equivalent coursework elsewhere
English Language Proficiency (International Students)
Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency by one of the following:
- Completion of at least 60 semester credits (or equivalent) in an accredited English-language institution
- High school or college education in an English-speaking country (see catalog for full list)
- Completion of an approved English proficiency assessment
Transfer Credit & Prior Learning Assessment
Transfer credit may be granted for other accredited institutions’ relevant biomedical and acupuncture coursework.
Applicants must submit:
- Official transcripts
- Course descriptions or syllabi
- A completed Course Exemption Request Form
All transfer credit requests are reviewed case-by-case and do not affect tuition or program length.
Non-Matriculating Students
Students may take individual courses for credit without pursuing a diploma.
- Courses earn grades and transcript credit
- Prerequisites may be required
- Credits may transfer to other schools or apply toward an MWAI diploma if matriculated later
All non-matriculated enrollment is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
2025-2026 Catalog
Click below to download the most recent Course Catalog, which includes academic policies, course descriptions, calendars, and more.
Nondiscrimination Policy
Middle Way Acupuncture Institute does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, veteran or military status, disability, or the use of service animals. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and accessible learning environment for all.